Hisar in Haryana also came under the influence of severe heat wave, at a maximum of 46.4 deg C, up four notches. These two cities and other places in the region registered their hottest day so far, with hot winds forcing people indoors.

Chandigarh had its hottest day so far at 43.2 deg C, up four notches than normal. Ludhiana and Patiala had 45.7 deg C and 45.1 deg C, up by six and five notches, respectively.

Jalandhar, Moga, Pathankot, Ferozepur and Gurdaspur had maximums settled in the range of 43-46 deg C.

Among other places in Haryana, Narnaul recorded 46 deg C, up five notches while severe heat swept Rohtak at 45.8 deg C, up six degrees.

Ambala's maximum settled at 44 deg C, up four notches, Bhiwani had a high of 43.8 deg C, Karnal at 44.5 deg C, up by five degrees.

With scorching heat prevailing in the region and MeT predicting no immediate respite, many people preferred to stay indoors to protect themselves from unbearable heat.

Unscheduled power cuts continued in Chandigarh and at some places in the two States making it difficult for the people to face the heat.

Some schools in the region were still open on Wednesday exposing children to the hot weather. (Agencies)